Sorry, smokers. A new policy at Edmonton’s brand new downtown arena will prohibit smokers from re-entering the arena once they leave the building for a cigarette.
“For the enjoyment of all of our guests, Rogers Place is a smoke-free environment,” the policy reads. “All forms of smoking, including the use of electronic cigarettes (vaping), is not permitted on Rogers Place property.”
The policy doesn’t just target smokers; no one will be allowed back inside the arena if they leave during an event, whether they have a ticket or not.
“Please be aware that guests will not be permitted to exit and re-enter the venue during events.”
READ MORE: Today’s the day! Edmonton’s long-awaited Rogers Place downtown arena opens
This is a change from the policy in place at Rexall Place, the Edmonton Oilers former home, where event-goers were allowed to enter and exit the building as long as they showed their ticket to arena staff.
“It’s a big change from the old Rexall Place but I can see the reasoning for it,” Chris Serafin, who has been a smoker for about seven years, said.
“The only thing is if you forget something in your car, that’s going to be unfortunate. Going without a smoke for a couple of hours while watching the game, I don’t think is really that big of a deal.”
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Stefan Fekner thinks it’s a great policy.
“I don’t smoke so I’m all in favour of it,” he said. “It’s an unhealthy habit and it does create an impact for people walking by the building outside.”
Not everyone agrees, though.
“It seems a little harsh,” Keith Weir said. “I know smokers are looked down upon more so than they’ve ever been but to ostracize them to that degree seems a little excessive.”
Rogers Arena, home to the Vancouver Canucks, also has a strict no in and out policy.
Rogers Place officially opens its doors Thursday afternoon. The public will get its first chance to tour the facility on Saturday.
READ MORE: How does Edmonton’s Rogers Place stack up against other NHL arenas?
The Oilers will inaugurate their brand new arena on Oct. 12 when they face the rival Calgary Flames on the opening night of the 2016-17 NHL season.
The first event at Rogers Place is next Friday, Sept. 16, when country star Keith Urban takes the stage.
Watch below: Ongoing video coverage of the opening of Rogers Place
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